At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and shape an innovative online school for children with SEND.
- Company: Elmswood Academy, a pioneering online alternative provision.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible hybrid working, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Join a supportive culture and help develop a positive learning environment.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in inclusive education for young people.
- Qualifications: Leadership experience in education and strong safeguarding knowledge required.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 60000 £ per year.
Elmswood Academy is an innovative new online alternative provision specialising in supporting children and young people with SEND, including SEMH needs. It operates in strategic partnership with Wellbrook Education, an experienced provider of independent special schools supporting pupils with SEND and additional needs.
We are seeking an experienced and compassionate leader to help shape and lead our new provision from its early stages of development. This is an exciting opportunity for someone who is passionate about inclusive education and believes that all young people deserve access to high-quality, ambitious and personalised learning experiences.
Our provision will offer:
- small class sizes
- live online teaching
- ambitious and engaging curriculum pathways
- strong safeguarding and pastoral support
- personalised learning and relational approaches
The successful candidate will:
- provide strategic and operational leadership across the provision
- support high standards of teaching, safeguarding and pupil wellbeing
- work collaboratively with schools, families and local authorities
- help develop a positive, inclusive and aspirational culture
- support pupils with SEND, SEMH and barriers to education
We are looking for someone with:
- leadership experience within education, SEND or alternative provision
- strong safeguarding knowledge and practice
- excellent communication and organisational skills
- a commitment to inclusive education and high expectations for all learners
In return, we offer:
- the opportunity to help shape a new and innovative provision
- flexible hybrid working arrangements
- a supportive and collaborative leadership culture
- opportunities for professional development and growth
- the chance to make a genuine difference to young people
Elmswood Academy is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All appointments will be subject to enhanced DBS and safer recruitment checks. To apply, please submit your CV and a covering letter outlining your suitability for the role and your experience within SEND and leadership.
Head of School - Remote in Maidstone employer: Wellbrook Education
Elmswood Academy is an exceptional employer that champions inclusive education, offering a unique opportunity to lead a pioneering online provision for children with SEND. With a flexible hybrid working model and a strong emphasis on professional development, employees are supported in their growth while making a meaningful impact on young lives. Join a collaborative leadership culture where your expertise can truly shape the future of education.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of School - Remote in Maidstone
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education sector, especially those involved with SEND. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings or even a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching Elmswood Academy and its mission. Show us you’re passionate about inclusive education and have ideas on how to enhance their provision. Tailor your responses to reflect their values!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your leadership stories! We want to hear about your experiences in education and how you've tackled challenges. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email reiterating your enthusiasm for the role can leave a lasting impression. Plus, it shows us you’re genuinely interested in joining the team.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of School - Remote in Maidstone
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Head of School role. Highlight your leadership experience in education and any specific work you've done with SEND. We want to see how your background aligns with our mission at Elmswood Academy!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about inclusive education and how you can contribute to our innovative provision. Be sure to mention any relevant experiences that showcase your commitment to high-quality learning.
Showcase Your Communication Skills:As a leader, excellent communication is key. In both your CV and cover letter, demonstrate your ability to communicate effectively with various stakeholders, including schools, families, and local authorities. We want to know how you can foster collaboration!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smooth application process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates from us regarding your application status!
How to prepare for a job interview at Wellbrook Education
✨Know Your SEND Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) and Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with the challenges these students face and how you can support them effectively.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Prepare to talk about your leadership experience in education. Think of specific examples where you've successfully led a team or initiative, especially in alternative provisions. Highlight your approach to fostering an inclusive culture and how you’ve supported staff and students alike.
✨Communicate Clearly and Confidently
Since this role involves collaboration with schools, families, and local authorities, practice articulating your thoughts clearly. Use examples that demonstrate your excellent communication skills and how they’ve helped you build strong relationships in previous roles.
✨Emphasise Your Commitment to Inclusion
Be prepared to discuss your passion for inclusive education. Share your vision for creating high-quality, personalised learning experiences for all students, particularly those with barriers to education. This will show that you’re not just qualified, but genuinely invested in making a difference.
